Ohio Democratic gubernatorial nominee Amy Acton has called on President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance to "look at the facts" regarding her childhood abuse, following their defense of a controversial attack ad from GOP nominee Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign. The ad features Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who Acton states stood by the man criminally charged with sexually abusing her as a child.

Acton, who has not seen her mother since she was 12, said the ad falsely claims she has lied about her past. Ramaswamy's ad does not mention the allegations of sexual abuse, but its release has drawn bipartisan criticism. Acton stated her aim is to "work with anyone on any side of the aisle to solve problems instead of making them."

Trump, speaking to reporters, dismissed questions about the sexual abuse allegations, asserting the ad was unrelated to Acton's stepfather. Vance, meanwhile, expressed disgust at Republicans focusing on the advertisement over Democratic policy proposals.

Acton alleges her mother's second husband molested her between the ages of 9 and 12. Charges were filed against her stepfather, and Acton testified against him. He pleaded not guilty but fled the state before trial and died in 2004 without appearing before a judge. Acton described enduring "extreme child abuse and neglect" with her brother, recalling frequent involvement with children's services.

"There are facts in this case: a grand jury indictment, fugitive out against bail, and that behavior went on and on," Acton stated, referencing the legal proceedings against her stepfather.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine described the ad as "deeply, deeply troubling" and urged the Ramaswamy campaign to retract it, though he did not withdraw his endorsement of Ramaswamy. When asked about DeWine's stance, Acton acknowledged it was an "honor and a privilege" to work with him as Director of the Ohio Department of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The controversy has highlighted a stark divide in political discourse, with critics arguing that Ramaswamy's campaign has crossed ethical boundaries by exploiting Acton's personal trauma for political gain. Supporters of the ad, including Vance, have framed the criticism as an overreaction compared to broader political concerns.

Acton's call for a factual examination underscores the personal stakes involved in the campaign and raises questions about the appropriateness of using familial and past trauma in political advertising, particularly when public figures like Trump and Vance defend such tactics.